2001 Subaru Impreza Window Won't Go Up Or Down

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Your 2001 Subaru Impreza's Power Windows and How to Fix Them

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
36% chance it's the
Fuse, Relay or Electrical System
0%
20% chance it's the
Window Motor
0%
24% chance it's the
Window Regulator
0%
20% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2001 Subaru Impreza window won't go up or down are window's electrical system such as a fuse or relay, a broken window motor, or a broken window regulator.
  • Fuse, Relay or Electrical System: A blown fuse or a faulty relay can disrupt the electrical circuit, causing components to malfunction or not operate at all.
  • Window Motor: A faulty window motor or a broken window regulator can prevent the window from moving up or down properly.
  • Window Regulator: A faulty window regulator can cause the window to become stuck or operate erratically due to worn gears or a broken cable.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2001 Subaru Impreza window won't go up or down?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

How urgent is it to fix the window that won't go up or down in a 2001 Subaru Impreza?

When faced with a window that won't go up or down in your 2001 Subaru Impreza, it's crucial to recognize the urgency of the situation. A stuck window can significantly compromise your safety, especially if it remains open during adverse weather conditions or in high-crime areas, making your vehicle more susceptible to theft or damage. Additionally, an improperly functioning window can expose your car's interior to harsh elements, leading to potential damage from rain, snow, or extreme temperatures. This not only affects the aesthetics of your vehicle but can also result in costly repairs down the line. Furthermore, a malfunctioning window can hinder your driving comfort by disrupting ventilation, making it uncomfortable during hot or cold weather. Ignoring these issues may lead to further mechanical complications, such as damage to the window motor or regulator, which could escalate repair costs. Therefore, addressing the problem promptly is essential to ensure the safety, security, and comfort of both you and your passengers, while also preventing more significant issues in the future.

What steps should I take to diagnose the window issue in my 2001 Subaru Impreza?

To effectively diagnose the window issue in your 2001 Subaru Impreza, start with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex components. Begin by examining the electrical system, as many window malfunctions stem from issues with the fuse, relay, or motor. Next, inspect the power window switch, which is crucial for signaling the window to operate; a malfunction here can prevent movement. If the window remains unresponsive, check the power window fuse in the fuse box, as a blown fuse could affect all windows. If only one window is problematic, consider testing the wiring and switch, as this can help pinpoint whether the issue lies with the switch or the motor. Finally, assess the power window regulator, as a faulty regulator can hinder the window's ability to roll up or down. By following this diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify the root cause of the window issue and take the necessary steps to resolve it.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.

2001 Subaru Impreza Window Issues: Causes & Repairs